Minneapolis, Minnesota – Norwest Mezzanine Partners (NMP) has invested a combination of subordinated debt and equity securities to support Highlander Partners in its acquisition of Kernel Season’s, a market leading developer and producer of branded popcorn seasoning.

“We are excited to again partner with NMP and continue to further our relationship. They are always reliable and easy to work with, and we look forward to building our snacks platform with NMP’s support,” commented Jeff Hull, President and Managing Partner of Highlander.

Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Chicago, IL, Kernel Season’s is the creator and category leader in branded popcorn seasoning. The Company’s products are sold in more than 22,000 retailers, including mass merchants, grocery and specialty stores, throughout North America and internationally. The products also can be found in movie theaters in more than 30 countries worldwide. The Company’s product portfolio includes more than a dozen popcorn dry seasonings, oils, and drizzles.

Carter Balfour, NMP Partner, stated, “On behalf of the NMP team, we are extremely happy to again invest in partnership with Highlander. Kernel Season’s is a unique, established business with an impressive management team and great opportunities for growth. We’re excited to support both Highlander and management as they continue to expand the business.”

Highlander Partners, L.P. is a Dallas-based private investment firm with over $2.0 billion of assets under management. The firm focuses on making investments in businesses in targeted industries in which the principals of the firm have significant operating and investing experience, including basic manufacturing, food, chemicals, building materials, consumer products, and others. Highlander Partners uses a “buy and build” investment approach, creating value by helping companies grow organically and through acquisitions. For more information, visit www.highlander-partners.com.